Watch Too Late Blues

Too Late Blues is a 1961 film directed by John Cassavetes starring Bobby Darin, Stella Stevens, and Everett Chambers. The movie tells the story of a Jazz musician, Ghost, (Bobby Darin) who is struggling to make ends meet while trying to make it big in the music scene of Los Angeles. Ghost plays guitar in a jazz band, but he wants to move into a new direction to create a new sound that could be something big. However, he is struggling with his new band members as they are not able to accept his sound and music. In fact, the bandmates have their own ideas for what they want their music to be.

Ghost is a complex character; he is struggling with his band, a failing relationship with his girlfriend Jess (Stella Stevens), and existential despair that comes with realizing his dream is slipping away. Ghost starts to make some rash decisions, end relationships and struggles with his past failures. He starts to isolate himself, and his girlfriend Jess is no longer happy with their relationship.

As Ghost tries to find a new sound, he meets a wealthy woman, Charlie (played by Elaine Stritch), who sees potential in his music and wants to invest in his music. Charlie is a good-hearted character and is genuinely interested in Ghost's music, but Ghost is not able to put his trust in anyone. The bandmates start to believe that Charlie has the power to make their dreams come true and go along with it; however, Ghost is not able to leave Jess behind and tries to come back to her.

The movie takes the audience through a roller-coaster of emotions, with hope, despair, love, and struggle. John Cassavetes, who was part of the New Hollywood movement, successfully creates a movie that showcases the themes of this movement. Cassavetes uses the camera and the background music to depict the fragile emotions of the characters. He creates a raw and emotional mood in the movie that is supported by the performances of the cast.

Bobby Darin's performance as Ghost is nothing short of mesmerizing. He showcases his vulnerability and despair but also portrays Ghost as strong-willed and determined to make his sound a reality. Darin's acting abilities shine during his performances on stage, where he commands all attention and is in his zone. Stella Stevens as Jess is remarkable too, and has excellent chemistry with Darin. Her emotions are very raw, and it is effortless to see the pain and frustration she is going through.

Too Late Blues is a movie that is worth watching if you are interested in seeing a character study in the Jazz scene in 1960s America. It showcases the struggle of the artists trying to find their new sound and fighting against the old ways. The movie was made in the experimental era of New Hollywood, and it is almost fitting that Cassavetes directed this film. The movie may take some time to build up momentum, but it is worth watching for the excellent cast and direction.

In conclusion, Too Late Blues is a movie that captures the essence of the 1960s Jazz scene in America. It tells the story of a character, Ghost, who is trying to find his artistic voice while dealing with his personal struggles. The film is well-acted, directed, and showcases the themes of the New Hollywood movement. It is a movie that may not appeal to everyone, but it is worth watching for its raw emotions, excellent background music, and stellar cast.

Too Late Blues is a 1961 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.